TRIBUTES have been paid to a dedicated community leader who died at the age of 75.

John Knobbs, who was chairman of the RAF Association’s Shotton and Connah’s Quay branch, passed away at the Countess of Chester Hospital on Tuesday, February 8, following a respiratory illness.

Mr Knobbs was a long-serving member of the association and served at RAF Valley between 1953 and 1958.

The last community event he organised was at Connah’s Quay Naval Club in December to mark the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain, which was attended by dignitaries including former Alyn and Deeside MP Lord Barry Jones.

Lord Jones said: “John’s widow Barbara can be very proud of a public-spirited man who wanted to serve the local community.

“He was very friendly and approachable and would rise to the occasion when organising events.

“The association will be able to remember him with pride.”

Alyn and Deeside MP Mark Tami said: “I was very saddened to hear of the news, my thoughts are with all of his family.

“John was a great example of someone who worked throughout all his life and was dedicated to the community.”

Mr Knobbs, who had worked in the town’s Co-op store, was also a dedicated Chester football supporter for more than 60 years.

Chester FC media officer Jeff Banks said: “It’s such a shame to lose a true Blue – one who offered a great level of support through thick and thin.”

John Knobbs’s funeral will take place tomorrow (Friday) at St Mark’s Church, Connah’s Quay, at 12.30pm, followed by committal at Chester Crematorium, Blacon.

Family flowers only, but donations in memory of John to the Countess of Chester Hospital Relative Comfort Appeal and The RAF Association would be gratefully appreciated.